The Lifetime Achievement Honor is conferred by the Icon Honors board of governors, which is co-chaired by Icon Honors Founder Jeffrey L. Portman, Sr., vice chairman, president and chief operating officer of Icon sponsor AmericasMart Atlanta, and George Kacic, president of Giftcraft and Icon Honors founding partner. The 2014 Lifetime Achievement Honor celebrates Baekgaard's enduring imprint on the gift, fashion and home sector through the continuing influence of the Vera Bradley brand.

"Barbara embodies American entrepreneurism," Portman said. "She is a pioneer and a dreamer, naturally dauntless and always ready for the next creative adventure. Her life and her career give voice to the hopes and dreams of all who aspire to do great things."